Verstappen “One of the Most Important Pillars” for Red Bull-Ford 2026 Project

Ford CEO Jim Farley has described Max Verstappen as a cornerstone of Red Bull-Ford’s efforts to deliver a competitive power unit for Formula 1’s 2026 regulations.

Red Bull Powertrains and Ford are working together on the new hybrid engines that will debut in 2026, in what is expected to be a major shake-up of the competitive order. Mercedes dominated the last regulation change in 2014, and all manufacturers are now pushing to ensure they are not left behind.

Speaking at the Italian Grand Prix, Farley emphasised the importance of having Verstappen fully committed to the project. “I think this is one of the most important pillars of foundation for the PU success,” he said. “Talking to Max, we at Ford really have grown our respect for him watching this year. The way he has provided stability without drama in an environment where we’re all just trying to do our jobs—I can really see that in his eyes today versus last year.”

Verstappen, who has a Red Bull contract through 2028, recently ended speculation about a possible Mercedes switch by confirming he will remain with the team. His presence provides continuity as Red Bull transitions from Honda power to its own Ford-backed engines.

Red Bull team principal and CEO Laurent Mekies highlighted Verstappen’s hands-on role in the project. “Max is doing a lot more than just asking for the numbers,” Mekies said. “He’s testing the car in the simulators, he’s working with engineers on both sides of the fence to understand how do we develop these 2026 cars—where do we try to get the power, where do we try to get the downforce? That’s how central he is to the project.”

Honda, Red Bull’s current supplier, will move to Aston Martin in 2026, leaving the Ford partnership as the team’s long-term solution. With Verstappen locked in and actively shaping the car, both Red Bull and Ford believe they have the foundation to challenge for success in F1’s next era.

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